Located in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, the Sumaco Napo Galeras National Park and the Sumaco Biosphere Reserve present natural and cultural attractions of exceptional value, with regards to the destination itself as well as along the course of its access route from Quito. Nevertheless, both the Park and the Reserve are under threat from internal and external pressures, which include oil exploitation, expansion of agriculture and cattle farming, deforestation, hunting and trafficking of species.